01
Obverse and reverse
The front and back work as a pair. Photograph the complete design on both faces, including the rim.
Practical guide
What coin is this?
Start with a likely identification, not a price. Photograph both faces, then compare the inscriptions, denomination, date, mint mark, edge, size, and weight. Those clues can narrow the type and variety; they do not authenticate or officially grade the coin.
Identify a coin from photos
Free download on iPhone and iPad · Optional Pro features
What to look for
Read the evidence on the coin
A single portrait can match many issues. Capture the combination of design, text, production marks, and physical dimensions before accepting a likely result.
02
Legend and denomination
Transcribe every readable word, numeral, symbol, and stated denomination—even when the language is unfamiliar.
03
Date and mint mark
Record the date and any small letter or symbol that may identify the mint. Position matters, so keep nearby details visible.
04
Edge and measurements
Note whether the edge is plain, reeded, lettered, or decorated, then record diameter and weight when you can measure safely.
Step by step
How to identify an unknown coin
- 01
Handle it by the edges
Work over a soft surface and avoid rubbing or cleaning a potentially collectible coin before identification. Cleaning can scratch the surface and reduce value.
- 02
Photograph both faces clearly
Use even, diffuse light and a plain background. Keep the full rim, design, date, mint mark, and inscriptions sharp without glare.
- 03
Write down the visible clues
Record the country or language, denomination, date, portrait, symbols, legends, mint mark, edge type, diameter, and weight.
- 04
Compare a likely match
Check the suggested type against both faces and official specifications. Similar designs, years, and varieties can differ in small but important ways.
- 05
Verify before grading or valuing
Treat the photo result and value context as a starting point. For a meaningful authenticity, grade, variety, or value decision, have the physical coin examined by a qualified specialist.
Inside the app
From two photos to a better question.
These are actual Coin Identifier screens. The app organizes a likely match and reference context so you can compare details instead of trusting one label.
Try the app
Build a useful record before chasing a price
Coin Identifier analyzes photos of both sides and suggests a likely type, denomination, country, period, date, and mint. It then keeps visible details, condition and value context, history, follow-up questions, and private collection notes together.
Primary references
Check the coin, then check the sources.
These references support the terminology, handling, and verification limits in this guide. They do not endorse the app.
- U.S. Mint — Anatomy of a CoinOfficial terminology for the obverse, reverse, edge, rim, inscriptions, mint marks, fields, relief, and finishes.
- U.S. Mint — Caring for Your Coin CollectionOfficial handling, lighting, storage, and cleaning cautions for collectible coins.
- U.S. Mint — Coin SpecificationsOfficial U.S. circulating-coin reference dimensions, composition, weight, and edge information.
- American Numismatic Association — Coin Collecting FAQsCollector guidance on mint marks, errors, value factors, care, and finding qualified numismatic help.
- NGC — Authentication and Grading ProcessA professional certification service’s overview of receiving, specialist attribution, expert grading, and encapsulation.
Direct answers
Coin identification questions
How can I identify a coin from a picture?
Photograph the complete obverse and reverse in even light, then compare the legends, denomination, date, mint mark, design, and edge. Coin Identifier can suggest a likely match, but important details still need independent verification.
What details help identify an unknown coin?
The most useful clues are both faces, readable inscriptions, denomination, date, mint mark, portrait or symbols, edge type, diameter, weight, metal appearance, and where the coin was found or obtained.
Should I clean a dirty coin before taking a photo?
Usually not. The U.S. Mint cautions that polishing or cleaning can reduce value, and brushing or rubbing can scratch the surface. Photograph it as found and ask a qualified conservator before treating a potentially valuable coin.
Can a coin scanner tell me the exact value?
No. A photo can support a likely identification and broad value context, but exact variety, authenticity, official grade, surface alteration, provenance, and current demand can materially change the value.
Can Coin Identifier authenticate or officially grade my coin?
No. The app does not authenticate, certify, or assign an official numeric grade. Professional certification involves expert examination and a formal grading process using the physical coin.